What is Water Safety?

Water safety is considered the rules and behaviors that can keep you and others safe while swimming, boating or otherwise enjoying bodies of water. Not only does it apply to recreational activities, but also the supervision of small children, even in the bathtub. These safety rules must always be observed regardless of the activity.

Learning to swim and teaching your children to swim is crucial when it comes to water safety. Even if your children are good swimmers, they should be supervised by an adult at all times. Knowing how to respond to an emergency situation is just as important as knowing how to swim, if not more so. Regardless of your swimming experience, avoid swimming alone or in bad weather conditions.

Practicing good water safety means keeping boating and alcohol consumption separate. This means whenever you are in a boat, out diving or swimming, alcohol should be avoided before or during the activity. Always wear a life jacket when you are in a boat and provide life jackets for everyone.

When it comes to water safety and children under the age of 5, never leave them unattended, regardless of whether they are outdoors at a pool or in the bathroom. Adjust the thermostat so that the water heater is down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. As an adult, you should always double check the water prior to putting a child in a bathtub by testing the temperature on your wrist or elbow. When the bathroom is not in use, keep the bathroom door and all toilets closed at all times.